Didge program music to the ears of students

Very few instruments in the world rival the rich history and cultural significance of the didgeridoo, and a Geraldton school is using that power to impart valuable lessons to students.

The Indi-Genius Didgeridoo Boys Group is in its fourth year at Rangeway Primary School and the program recently had an influx of instruments.

Rangeway parent Tony Bland was sanctioned by Yamatji elders to make didgeridoos for the students, which he said had been a rewarding process.

“I started making them for my boys after my didge snapped, and once I started, it wasn’t too difficult so I just kept going,” he said.

“It takes a lot of time but bugger-all money and I get a lot out of it.”

The group was started by deputy principal George Scicluna, who has been using the program to boost attendance and improve children’s behaviour.

When the group started, there were only five students but the program has expanded to include other schools so the children can continue playing as they move on.

“It’s all about building life skills for them because their behaviour has to be impeccable to be in the program and they all really want to be here,” Mr Scicluna said.

“It’s also about crossing cultural boundaries because the kids don’t see colour when they’re playing the instruments.

“We started off with PVC pipe but the real didgeridoo gives them a bit more ownership over what they’re doing, so it’s been amazing to have Tony make them for us.

The students have appeared at numerous events around Geraldton and last year they were invited to perform at Telethon.

Mr Scicluna said he was impressed with the students’ confidence during the performance, which was broadcast live throughout the State.

“There were hundreds of people watching them, but there wasn’t a nerve amongst any of the kids,” he said.

“We’ve been lucky to get funding from SinoSteel, who have been really supportive, which means we can get the kids out there performing.”

Anyone who picks up a didgeridoo will understand the challenge in getting a descent sound from the ancient instrument.

Maintaining a consistent drone and mastering circular breathing are not easy skills to acquire.

Didgeridoo teacher Robert Tester said the children had taken to playing the instrument “like a fish to water”.

“You’ve got to want to learn it because it takes a lot of practice,” he said.

“The kids have improved so much that we’re now encouraging them to make their own songs and rhythms and that’s a big breakthrough.

“When the program started, the kids seemed embarrassed but now they can’t get enough of it.”